Dependents admitted to LTMU and ICCT: a comparative study on health condition evolution

Abstract

Introduction: The National Network of Integrated Continuous Care (NNICC) integrates a set of internment types and home support. The main objective is the provision of care for dependents and the training of family members to take care. Objective: Compare the health condition evolution among dependents admitted on the Long Term and Maintenance Units (LTMU) and the Integrated Continuous Care Teams (ICCT). Material and Methods: Exploratory study of quantitative profile with an inter-subject and intra-subject design. A sample of 466 cases: 241 admitted in 3 LTMU and 225 in 4 ICCT of Minho, Portugal. Was applied the form “Profile of dependents integrated in NNICC providers" in admission (A) and clinical discharge (D), for 1 year (between 2013 and 2014). Results: Dependents on the ICCT, are older, have longer dependency time and greater autonomy reconstruction potential; fewer deaths and fewer exacerbations. In LTMU there is a higher % of: pressure ulcers, joint stiffness and ineffective coughing. In an inter-subject evaluation, dependents on the ICCT are less dependent on self-care, in A [t (464) = - 5.573, p <.001], and D [t (232) = - 4.303, p <.001] ; lower bodily processes commitment either in A [t (464) = - 2.567], p = .011] and D [t (233) = - 2.009, p = .046]. In an intra-subject evaluation, on ICCT there are a higher number of cases with positive development between admission and discharge, on the dependency level and bodily processes commitment. Conclusion: The dependents accompanied by ICCT have better health condition and positive evolution compared to those admitted to LTMU.